Love and Sword [Complete] - 20

Volume 7, Chapter 15: First Clues Appear.

Hua Yufeng was sitting by the window when Hua Ruoxu entered. She quickly got up to greet him.
"What's wrong? Did you see Princess Wushuang?" Hua Yufeng noticed Hua Ruoxu's serious expression and frowned as she asked.
"I should say I saw her." Hua Ruoxu's lips curled into a strange smile, and his words were rather odd.
Seeing Hua Yufeng looking at him with a questioning gaze, Hua Ruoxu then recounted in detail his meeting with Princess Wushuang not long ago. At the end, he looked at Hua Yufeng and found her lost in thought.
"Isn't Princess Wushuang very beautiful?" Hua Yufeng pondered for a while before suddenly raising her head and asking.
"She is very beautiful." Hua Ruoxu nodded gently. "However, I always have a feeling that neither her appearance nor her temperament seems to match her reputation. Perhaps the rumors really can't be believed."
"Rumors can't be believed, but the rumors about Princess Wushuang are all true." Hua Yufeng shook her head, her two willow-leaf eyebrows tightly furrowed. "By the way, junior brother, when you saw her, did you notice that she resembled me even a little bit? I'm not talking about appearance, but that feeling."
Hua Ruoxu thought for a moment, then shook his head.
"I can't think of any similarity between her and you, Feng'er." Hua Ruoxu sighed softly.
Hua Yufeng fell into deep thought again.
“Feng’er, don’t think about it anymore. Perhaps Princess Wushuang really is just here for fun, and maybe she can find a suitable husband. We don’t need to worry about her for now.” Hua Ruoxu picked up Hua Yufeng and whispered in her ear, “It’s getting late, we should rest.”
“No, I can’t.” Hua Yufeng looked into Hua Ruoxu’s eyes and saw the hidden spark in them. Her face flushed slightly, and she refused softly, “Someone will be coming later.”
Hua Ruoxu seemed not to hear her at all and kissed her cherry lips, sucking on them greedily. Hua Yufeng was extremely embarrassed and anxious, worried that her subordinates would come in and see them.
“Young Master!” A sweet voice came from the doorway. Hua Ruoxu inwardly groaned, while Hua Yufeng breathed a slight sigh of relief. Hanxue, that clingy girl, was here again.
“Xiaoxue, you’re still not asleep?” Hua Ruoxu helplessly released Hua Yufeng and turned to walk to the door.
"I'm waiting for Young Master," Hanxue said, looking aggrieved, her eyes brimming with tears as she gazed at Hua Ruoxu. Her endearing appearance instantly dispelled any unpleasantness Hua Ruoxu felt.
"You stay with Xiaoxue. A disciple from the academy will contact me tonight. Tomorrow night, I'll wait for you!" Hua Yufeng transmitted her voice to Hua Ruoxu, her tone filled with shyness.
Faced with Xiaoxue, there was probably nothing anyone could do. Hua Ruoxu could only reluctantly pull Hanxue away.
*** *** ***
"Fang Xia, you stop right there!" Suddenly, a delicate shout rang out. Hua Ruoxu paused, startled, and saw Fang Xia hurrying towards them, followed by a slender figure. Hua Ruoxu chuckled
inwardly; he recognized the person chasing Fang Xia as Lan Xuerou.
"Eldest sister, second sister, stop him for me!" With Lan Xuerou's shout, Bai Xinjing and Hong Yue'er appeared in response, blocking Fang Xia's path.
Hua Ruoxu watched with amusement, a slight smile playing on his lips. Han Xue also observed the four with interest.
"Miss Lan, I've said it many times, I'm deeply honored by your kindness, but I truly already have someone I love. Please, just let me go!" Fang Xia was already exasperated by the three Lan sisters.
"You, you're clearly lying! You don't have someone you love at all. If you did, why aren't they with you?" Lan Xuerou said, her voice trembling with tears.
"Young Master, who is Brother Fang's sweetheart?" Han Xue asked at this moment, her voice low, but they all heard her.
A strange feeling welled up in Hua Ruoxu's heart. He vaguely knew that Fang Xia's love interest was actually his senior sister, Sun Yunyan. Thinking of his unresolved relationship with Sun Yunyan, he couldn't help but feel troubled.
"Brother Fang, forgive my bluntness, but since Miss Lan is so devoted to you, why do you keep her at arm's length?" Hua Ruoxu sighed softly and interjected. Perhaps feeling a little guilty towards Fang Xia, Hua Ruoxu felt he should try to bring him and Lan Xuerou together. In truth, Fang Xia and Lan Xuerou did look quite well-matched.
"Having seen the ocean, other waters seem insignificant; having beheld the clouds of Wushan, other clouds seem pale. I say, brother-in-law, don't pressure Brother Fang." A lazy voice rang out. The one calling Hua Ruoxu "brother-in-law" could only be Hua Feihua.
"Hey, what do you mean?" Lan Xuerou glared at Hua Feihua with extreme displeasure, her expression somewhat fierce.
"It's nothing. Hey, Miss Lan, Fang Xia doesn't like you. Forcing him won't help. As the saying goes, forced love is never sweet." Hua Feihua still had that carefree attitude, chuckling as she spoke. "How about you look at me? I, Hua Feihua, am much better than that clueless Fang Xia."
"You, what did you say?" Lan Xuerou was furious. Judging from her expression, if Bai Xinjing hadn't held her back, she would have fought Hua Feihua to the death.
"Didn't you hear me clearly? Never mind if you didn't hear me clearly. Why don't you say it again for me, brother-in-law?" Hua Feihua giggled and turned to Hua Ruoxu, saying, "Brother-in-law, I'm your brother-in-law, you should at least put in a good word for me, right? I'm still all alone, so lonely." Hua Feihua put on a pitiful look.
"You guys, hmph, all men are no good!" Lan Xuerou glared fiercely at Hua Feihua, then glared fiercely at Fang Xia, and turned to run into the room. Bai Xinjing and Hong Yue'er glared at the group with dissatisfaction before chasing after their younger sister.
"What? Young Master is perfectly fine! You're the one who's no good," Han Xue muttered under her breath.
Fang Xia stood there quietly, his mind drifting back to his gentle senior sister. But where was she now? Had she returned to Kunlun or gone somewhere else? He certainly couldn't imagine that Sun Yunyan was already one of the three elders of the Demon Palace.
Hua Ruoxu hurriedly left, unable to bear the scene. Fang Xia and Hua Feihua were troubled by love, not entirely because of him, but he was involved to some extent. Although he didn't think he had done anything wrong, he still felt a pang of guilt.
"Xiao Xue, go to sleep first. I have some things to do." Hua Ruoxu placed Han Xue on the bed, ignoring her reluctant expression, and left, closing the door behind him. Han
Xue got up and chased after him to the door, only to find Hua Ruoxu had gone to Hua Yuluan's place. She could only pout and return to bed.
Hua Yuluan had already rested and was surprised to see Hua Ruoxu enter. She prepared to sit up.
"Senior Sister, don't move," Hua Ruoxu said softly, quickly stepping over and pressing down on her delicate body.
"It's so late, why are you here?" Hua Yuluan asked reproachfully. Although Hua Ruoxu had visited her every day these past few days, he had never come at night.
"Senior Sister, I want to stay here tonight," Hua Ruoxu said softly. Before Hua Yuluan could reply, he slipped inside and gently embraced her.
"Junior Brother, I'm not feeling well right now," Hua Yuluan said softly, her pretty face slightly flushed.
"Senior Sister, don't worry, I know," Hua Ruoxu gently kissed her cheek and whispered in her ear, "Go to sleep. Take care of yourself, don't stay up too late."
Hua Yuluan softly hummed in agreement, a sweet feeling welling up inside her. She actually hoped Hua Ruoxu could hold her like this every night, as it would bring her peace. However, she was also a little worried that they might not be able to control themselves, given their recent marriage. She was also somewhat afraid that Hua Ruoxu would come looking for her at night.
Hua Ruoxu had found that he only felt truly at peace when he was with Hua Yuluan and Hua Yufeng, where he could temporarily put aside his unhappiness. Since Hua Yufeng couldn't be with him today, he had come here. Hua Tianxing was usually a good confidante, and Hua Ruoxu trusted her completely. However, recently he had been constantly teased by Hua Tianxing, and coupled with his indescribable feelings for her, he was hesitant to think about her.

"Junior brother, I sent the message over last night. So far, there's been no evidence of any relationship between Zen Master Jueyuan and Ye Bu'er." Early the next morning, Hua Ruoxu went to Hua Yufeng's place, and as he expected, she had news to tell him.
"Ten years ago, Ye Bu'er officially appeared in the martial arts world and became famous overnight; and ten years ago, Master took in four junior brothers, Changfeng, to train by his side. The timing is just so coincidental; and today, ten years later, Master has asked me to bring these four to deal with Ye Bu'er. Feng'er, don't you think that, in fact, ten years ago, Master already knew Ye Bu'er's true colors? Ten years ago, he knew Ye Bu'er would do such a thing today?" Hua Ruoxu said softly, a thoughtful expression on his face.
"Although we haven't discovered their relationship, it's not entirely nonexistent. It's just that I'm afraid you might not be able to accept it if I tell you." Hua Yufeng said after a slight hesitation.
"Feng'er, just say it. Some things must be accepted." Hua Ruoxu was slightly taken aback, then sighed softly.
"Master Jueyuan's secular surname is Ye, the same as Ye Bu'er's." Hua Yufeng said softly.
Hua Ruoxu's expression changed, and he looked at Hua Yufeng with disbelief.
"Feng'er, you mean..." Hua Ruoxu couldn't continue. He vaguely understood Hua Yufeng's meaning, but if this was truly the outcome, he simply couldn't accept it.
"Right now, I'm just guessing, but considering Zen Master Jueyuan's suicide, and that sentence in the letter you saw after his death, I think this possibility is very high." Hua Yufeng nodded gently. "Don't think too much about it now. Even if our guess is correct, there might still be many hidden secrets."
"Feng'er, I'm going to see Ye Bu'er." Hua Ruoxu's expression changed drastically. After pondering for a long time, he raised his head, his expression becoming solemn, and his voice very low.
"Do you want me to go with you?" Hua Yufeng nodded, and after a moment, asked softly.
"Feng'er, no need. I'll go see him alone. Don't worry, no one can stop me if I want to leave." Hua Ruoxu shook his head, pondered for a moment, and said, "Feng'er, also keep an eye on those three young ladies from Dongting, just in case."
"I've already sent someone to investigate. Besides, Fang Xia and Hua Feihua should be fine." Hua Yufeng was even more thoughtful than Hua Ruoxu. She knew that Hua Ruoxu felt some guilt towards Hua Feihua, and since he was Hua Feimeng's younger brother, he might not want to investigate his background. So she handled it for him.
*** *** ***
Ye Family.
"Please inform them that I want to see Ye Bu'er." Hua Ruoxu said calmly. He wouldn't pretend to be polite now.
"Hua Ruoxu, the Justice League doesn't welcome people like you, and Master Ye doesn't have time to see you either." Before the two disciples at the door could speak, a voice came from inside.
"Ge Yunxiang, you have no right to speak here. Whether Ye Bu'er sees me or not is none of your business." Hua Ruoxu glanced coldly at Ge Yunxiang, then said to the two Justice League disciples at the door, "If you two are unwilling to go and announce my arrival, then I will go in myself." He then made a move to leave. "
Young Master Hua, please wait a moment. We will go and consult the Alliance Leader immediately." The two disciples, seeing that things were not going well, decided to go and announce their arrival, otherwise they would not be able to bear the responsibility if any problems arose.
"Hua Ruoxu, I'm warning you, this is the Justice League, not your Tianxing Alliance. You have no right to act wildly here." Ge Yunxiang's eyes flashed with anger and jealousy as he stared fiercely at Hua Ruoxu.
"You're right. This is the Justice League, not my territory, Hua Ruoxu's territory, but of course, it's not your territory either, Ge Yunxiang's territory. Therefore, it's not your place to point fingers and make irresponsible remarks. You should just obediently become Ye Bu'er's follower." Hua Ruoxu's tone was lazy, showing that he didn't take him seriously at all. To be honest, Hua Ruoxu had reached the point of loathing Ge Yunxiang. The main reason was Hua Feimeng, but it was also related to Ge Yunxiang's divorce of Sun Yunyan.

"

Hua Ruoxu, don't be so smug!" If Ge Yunxiang didn't have even a shred of self-awareness, he probably would have attacked by now.
"Ge Yunxiang, you were once a sect leader and a top-ranked expert, perhaps worthy of my respect. Unfortunately, your actions are completely unbecoming of your status. Your wife was kidnapped by the enemy, and instead of rescuing her, you openly divorced her. A person like you isn't qualified to speak to me!" Hua Ruoxu said coldly. Although he had no feelings for Sun Yunyan, he still felt sorry for her marrying such a man.
"Since Young Master Hua is here, please come in. I am very pleased to welcome you." Ye Bu'er's voice rang out, and he appeared with it. However, he seemed overly friendly to Hua Ruoxu, quite unlike his attitude just a few days ago when Hua Ruoxu had tricked him.
"Is that so? You really think highly of me." Hua Ruoxu smiled faintly. "There are some things I'd like to discuss with you privately. Perhaps you should find a quiet place. I don't want to see people I find repulsive." Hua Ruoxu glanced at Ge Yunxiang as he spoke.
"Young Master Hua, you can come with me." Ye Bu'er seemed unperturbed by Hua Ruoxu's impolite words, smiled slightly, and turned to walk inside.
Hua Ruoxu followed immediately, completely ignoring the murderous glare behind him.
*** *** ****
"No one will come here, not even Wu Ying. I suppose you've come to see me of your own accord. Please speak frankly." Ye Bu'er led Hua Ruoxu through several doors and around several corners into a quiet room. He glanced at Hua Ruoxu, his tone calm.
"My master, also known as Zen Master Jueyuan, I wonder if Mr. Ye knows him?" Hua Ruoxu stared intently at Ye Bu'er's face, trying to discern any changes, but unfortunately, he found nothing.
"Who in the martial world doesn't know the name of Zen Master Jueyuan?" Ye Bu'er smiled slightly. "I haven't even congratulated you yet, Young Master Hua. To become Zen Master Jueyuan's disciple is something many martial artists dream of."
"Do you want to know how my master died?" Hua Ruoxu suppressed his inner turmoil and asked again.
"Zen Master Jueyuan was quite old; I think everyone knows the reason for his passing." Ye Bu'er remained as composed
as ever. "My master committed suicide!" Hua Ruoxu uttered each word clearly, and Ye Bu'er finally trembled slightly. Although he quickly regained his composure, he still couldn't escape Hua Ruoxu's gaze. However, a sense of shock grew within him. Could it be that his and Hua Yufeng's guess was correct?
"That's truly lamentable." Ye Bu'er sighed softly, but immediately looked puzzled. "But why is Young Master Hua telling me all this?"
"Since Master Ye doesn't understand, there's no point in me explaining." Hua Ruoxu smiled faintly. "I'll take my leave now, but before I go, I have one more thing to tell you: those who do many evil deeds will surely perish!"
Watching Hua Ruoxu's departing figure, a fleeting pang of pain crossed Ye Bu'er's eyes, quickly replaced by a ruthless glint.
*** *** ***
Hua Ruoxu hurriedly returned to the Hua residence and went straight to Ximen Lin's room.
"Sister Lin!" Hua Ruoxu pushed open the door, only to find someone standing there, seemingly about to leave.
"Ruoxu, I was just about to look for you! Come in quickly!" Ximen Lin's eyes lit up when she saw Hua Ruoxu.
"Sister Lin, did you need something?" Hua Ruoxu asked, startled.
"I have something I'd like to discuss with you. I think our Qinglou disciples should be sent into the martial world to hone their skills. If they don't experience some real battles, I'm afraid they won't amount to much." Ximen Lin nodded and continued.
"Sister Lin, I know that too, but I'm a little worried. Sending them out now might inevitably cause casualties." Hua Ruoxu pondered for a moment before speaking.
"Casualties are inevitable; we can only try our best to avoid them," Ximen Lin sighed softly. "The success of one general is built on the bones of ten thousand. Although the struggles in the martial world are not war, they are actually very similar. In the martial world, how many people can live to a ripe old age?"

"I know, Sister Lin. When we need to take the initiative, I will arrange for them to go," Hua Ruoxu said with a somewhat helpless expression. Although he knew that what Ximen Lin said was true, he still did not want any of his disciples to be injured or killed, even though he knew it would be difficult.
“The situation is still unclear. The Justice League’s apparent strength isn’t very strong. I estimate that he probably doesn’t intend to use these people to achieve his goals. These people might just be a facade to deceive people.” Simon Lin frowned. “Ruoxu, have you thought about how we can uncover all the forces behind him?”
“Sister Lin, I think Ye Bu’er will automatically bring those forces out soon. Maybe he feels the time isn’t quite right yet.” Hua Ruoxu thought for a moment and said, “By the way, Sister Lin, I have something I want to ask you. Was Ye Bu’er’s name Yi Ye before?”
“Yi Ye?” Simon Lin shook her head. “I don’t know either, because I didn’t know his name before. But, but…” Simon Lin seemed to be recalling something.
“But what?” Hua Ruoxu couldn’t help but ask.
“Master seems to have used the surname Yi, but I’m not sure.” Simon Lin hesitated for a moment before saying.
“Yi, Ye.” Hua Ruoxu silently repeated these two words in his heart. If Ye Bu'er was formerly called Yi Ye, the South Sea Divine Nun's surname was Yi, and Zen Master Jueyuan's surname was Ye, then wouldn't that mean…? Hua Ruoxu couldn't help but shudder. This thought made him hesitant to continue.
“Sister Lin, did the South Sea Divine Nun know Zen Master Jueyuan before?” Hua Ruoxu's voice was somewhat low.
“I don't know, but I'm certain I've never met Zen Master Jueyuan.” Ximen Lin looked at Hua Ruoxu with a questioning gaze and shook her head.
*** *** ***
After leaving Ximen Lin, Hua Ruoxu's mind was still in turmoil. He was unsettled by his own bold conjecture, because it seemed utterly absurd to outsiders. However, based on numerous clues, he found that if things were truly like that, then many things that had happened since then would make perfect sense, including Zen Master Jueyuan's suicide.
"Ruoxu." Hua Feimeng's sweet voice rang out, followed by a fragrant breeze. Hua Feimeng appeared before Hua Ruoxu, pulling him towards her room.
"Meng'er, what's wrong? Is something the matter?" Hua Ruoxu asked, somewhat puzzled.
"The Holy Maiden has come to see me again." Hua Feimeng's expression became somewhat unnatural, looking a little guilty. "She wants me to return to the Divine Palace tonight, but she didn't say why."
"Oh? Is she asking you to leave secretly or to tell me first?" Hua Ruoxu frowned. The Divine Palace hadn't bothered him for a long time, nor had it asked him to do anything; something seemed amiss.
"The Holy Maiden didn't say it explicitly, but... but from what I heard, it seems she wants me to sneak back," Hua Feimeng said softly, then looked at Hua Ruoxu with a somewhat mournful gaze. "Ruoxu, I... I don't want to go back!"
"You stay here, don't worry about your Holy Maiden," Hua Ruoxu gently pulled her close and said softly. "Don't worry, it's safe here."
"But... but I don't want to betray the Palace Master either, Ruoxu, what should I do?" Hua Feimeng looked distressed, tears welling up in her eyes.
"Meng'er, I'm going out for a bit. Stay in the room and wait for me to come back," Hua Ruoxu said softly after a moment's thought. Hua Feimeng looked at Hua Ruoxu's eyes with some confusion, but found them filled with determination and confidence, and nodded involuntarily.
*** *** ***
Hua Ruoxu decided to go to the Divine Palace again. Of course, he didn't go immediately. He first went to Hua Yufeng's room and told her about his meeting with Ye Bu'er that day. Finally, he also told her about some things he had learned from Ximen Lin, including his own suspicions.
"Junior brother, perhaps things are really as you think, but don't rush. I'll look for some old records to see if I can find any clues." Hua Yufeng was silent for a while, then said softly. Hua Ruoxu nodded, but his heart sank.
"Feng'er, I'm going to the Divine Palace." Hua Ruoxu explained his whereabouts to Hua Yufeng. He often did this before leaving, just like explaining to a wife.
**** *** ***
"Young Master Hua has come uninvited. What brings you here?" In the same underground palace, Hua Ruoxu met Gong Yaqian again, and Gong Yaqian looked at Hua Ruoxu with some surprise and asked.
"I want to take Youyou and Sister Qing away, and Meng'er will stay in my Hua family mansion. From now on, they will be members of the Hua family. What conditions do you want? Just say it," Hua Ruoxu said bluntly.
"Young Master Hua, I'm afraid you're asking too much. Sister Youyou and Sister Yue aren't here for the time being, and as for Sister Meng, we need her to do some things," Gong Yaqian said, seemingly even more surprised.
"Gong Yaqian, the reason I've been so tolerant of you is because Youyou and the others are originally from your Divine Palace, and I don't want them to be in a difficult position. But I warn you, if I reach my breaking point, I can make the Divine Palace disappear from the martial arts world. Even if Youyou and the others are loyal to your Divine Palace, I believe that at that time, they will still be by my side," Hua Ruoxu coldly snorted. "If you don't believe me, I can show you!"
"Is Young Master Hua threatening me?" Gong Yaqian's sweet smile froze slightly, and her tone became somewhat strained.
"You can think of it that way if you want. In short, I'm here today to take them!" Hua Ruoxu said in a tone that was neither soft nor hard.
Gong Yaqian's expression changed slightly, as if she was about to explode, but she quickly restrained herself, her expression softening and her tone becoming more gentle.
"Young Master Hua, I think you've misunderstood. Sister Yue is indeed not here. As for where she went, I believe you are quite familiar with that place. You went there and hid for quite some time in search of Sister Yue." Gong Yaqian forced a smile as she spoke.
"You mean Sister Qing went to the Immortal Palace?" Hua Ruoxu was slightly startled. "Her identity has already been exposed. You're still sending her there? Aren't you just sending her into the tiger's den?" Hua Ruoxu's anger was palpable.
"It seems Young Master Hua doesn't understand Sister Yue well enough. Sister Yue is skilled in disguise; if she doesn't show herself, very few people can detect her. Therefore, Young Master Hua need not worry." Gong Yaqian smiled faintly. "As for Sister Meng, if Young Master Hua really can't bear to see her return, that's not impossible. However, I hope Young Master Hua can do me a small favor."
"What about Youyou? Where is Youyou?" Hua Ruoxu's anger subsided slightly.
"Sister Youyou is currently in seclusion and will need about three to seven days. After she comes out, I can arrange for her to meet you at the Hua residence. I wonder if Young Master Hua is satisfied now?" Gong Yaqian was perhaps truly more responsive to force than gentleness; she was now granting Hua Ruoxu's requests, although she had added some conditions.
"Alright, I'll trust you this once!" Hua Ruoxu pondered for a moment, then said in a deep voice, "Speak, what do you want me to do?"
"The Immortal Palace has a branch altar in Jinling, and I want this branch altar to completely disappear from Jinling within seven days!" A cold glint flashed in Gong Yaqian's eyes, filled with intense hatred.
"The location, and everything you know about this branch altar." Hua Ruoxu agreed almost without hesitation.
"Go back and tell Sister Meng to come and collect what you want at midnight tonight." Gong Yaqian said calmly, and seeing Hua Ruoxu's hesitation, she added, "Don't worry, I, Gong Yaqian, am not one to go back on my word. Sister Meng will return to your side once she has what you want."
*** *** ***
"Senior Sister, why are we so tolerant of Hua Ruoxu?" After Hua Ruoxu left, Gong Yaqian could no longer hold back and asked a masked woman.
"Judging from Hua Ruoxu's recent behavior, he's become quite assertive. We can't confront him head-on, nor is it necessary. After all, he's not our enemy, and we don't want to end up with a mutually destructive conflict," the masked woman said softly. "Moreover, the Tianxing Alliance's strength is now considerable, and Hua Ruoxu's martial arts are unfathomable. Rather than provoking him, we should negotiate with him. If he can help us get revenge, what does it matter if Meng Jie returns to his side?"

End of Volume Seven, *Love's Obsession*.

Volume Eight, *The Cold Sword*: Synopsis:

The Divine Palace and the Immortal Palace begin their close combat, inevitably drawing Hua Ruoxu into the fray;
Princess Wushuang begins to implement her plan, targeting the entire martial arts world;
Hua Ruoxu gradually uncovers Ye Bu'er's true identity but finds himself in a dilemma. At this time, Ye Bu'er approaches him, frankly requesting an alliance…
…

Many subsequent plot developments await!

Volume 8, Cold Sword, Chapter 1: The Beginning of Trouble.

In the Hua Manor, Hua Feimeng paced anxiously in her bedroom, glancing frequently at the door.
Finally, Hua Ruoxu appeared at the door, and Hua Feimeng rushed towards him.
"Ruoxu, you're back!" Hua Feimeng cried out urgently, throwing herself into Hua Ruoxu's arms. "Ruoxu, I heard from Yu Feng that you went to the palace. Did you go to see the Palace Master?"
"Meng'er, you can stay here in peace now." Hua Ruoxu gently pulled her into his arms, lowered his head, and kissed her cherry lips. Hua Feimeng's face lit up with joy, and she responded passionately, but after a moment, slightly out of breath, she pushed Hua Ruoxu away.
"Ruoxu, what did you say to the Palace Master? And did you agree to some condition?" Hua Feimeng wasn't stupid; she knew that Gong Yaqian wouldn't let her leave so easily.
"It's nothing, I just promised to do something very simple for her. By the way, you'll go see her around midnight tonight, and she'll give you something. You can bring it back." Hua Ruoxu hesitated for a moment before saying, "How about this, let's go together tonight."
"We still have to see her?" Hua Feimeng's expression changed, her voice low, seemingly reluctant. After thinking for a moment, she added, "I can go alone, don't worry, it'll be fine."
*** *** ***
The sky gradually darkened, and Hua Yufeng sat quietly by the window. The dim light reflected on her delicate face, revealing a faint blush. She glanced at the door from time to time, feeling both nervous and expectant.
"Feng'er." A familiar, gentle voice came from behind, and then a pair of strong arms embraced her from behind, his familiar scent filling her nostrils.
"You, you're back." Hua Yufeng's voice was low, her body trembling slightly for no reason. She stole a glance at Hua Ruoxu before quickly lowering her head again.
"Feng'er, I... I can't stay with you tonight." Hua Ruoxu hesitated for a long time before finally saying it, then looked at Hua Yufeng's face nervously.
"Okay, okay." Hua Yufeng's pretty face flushed slightly again, and she said softly. Her tense body suddenly relaxed, but she also felt a little disappointed.
"Gong Yaqian promised Meng'er that she could stay here and not go to the Divine Palace anymore, but she also wants Meng'er to see her tonight. Meng'er seems very nervous, and I'm worried that something might happen, so I want to go with her later to check on her." Hua Ruoxu continued, explaining himself.
"I know, you go and stay with her first. By the way, what conditions did you agree to with Gong Yaqian?" Hua Yufeng was always so understanding. Although she felt a little uncomfortable, she still asked Hua Ruoxu in a very gentle tone.
"She wants us to help her deal with the Immortal Palace. I'm not quite sure yet. I'll discuss the countermeasures with you after Meng'er comes back tonight." Hua Ruoxu thought for a moment and said. Seeing that Hua Yufeng didn't seem angry, he felt much more at ease.
*** *** ***
It was past midnight. A dark figure flashed out of the Hua Mansion. Hua Feimeng, dressed in night clothes, quickly ran towards the city gates.
"Sister Meng." A woman in white, masked, appeared ahead, and Hua Feimeng stopped abruptly. They were already outside the city, in a vast, desolate wilderness with several barren, yellow earthen hills. Beside one of these hills, two graceful figures stood in the night wind.
"Greetings, Holy Maiden!" Hua Feimeng bowed deeply.
"Sister Meng, congratulations on finding a perfect husband." The Holy Maiden sighed softly, "It seems we sisters will have a hard time reuniting in the future."
"Holy Maiden, this subordinate..." Hua Feimeng stammered, unsure what to say.
“Sister Meng, there’s no need to say anything. Actually, I understand. For a woman, the man she loves most is always the most important. We won’t blame you.” The Holy Maiden shook her head, taking a few steps as she spoke. “We just hope Sister Meng won’t blame us for using you as a condition. I think Sister Meng is well aware of the situation in the palace. We really had no choice. We hope Sister Meng can understand.”
“This subordinate has no intention of blaming the Palace Master and the Holy Maiden. We should ask the Palace Master for more help.” Hua Feimeng said softly.
“Sister Meng, this is for Young Master Hua. Please take it to him.” The Holy Maiden took out a sealed letter from her bosom and handed it to Hua Feimeng. “Sister Meng, take good care of yourself!” Her eyes also revealed a hint of reluctance.
“Holy Maiden, please take good care of yourself too!” Hua Feimeng took the letter and said softly, her eyes slightly moist. People aren’t plants or trees; how could they be without feelings? The sisterly bond of many years couldn’t be easily broken.
Hua Feimeng stared blankly at the Holy Maiden's receding figure. Having known her for over ten years, she had never seen her true face, nor knew her name, only calling her the Holy Maiden. Her extraordinary beauty had evoked a sense of envy, and her mystery had once intrigued her. Finally able to stay peacefully by her lover's side, Hua Feimeng secretly breathed a sigh of relief, finally putting her uneasy heart at ease, though a touch of melancholy lingered.
"Who goes there? Show yourself!" Hua Feimeng's expression suddenly changed slightly, and she called out in a low, delicate voice.
"Long time no see, Little Meng'er, your martial arts have indeed improved greatly." A clear, magnetic voice rang out, and Hua Feimeng's expression immediately shifted.
"Ge Yunxiang, I've already told you, don't address me like that, because you have no right to!" Hua Feimeng's pretty face was frosty as she coldly looked at the man opposite her, whom she had once been infatuated with but now somewhat disliked. Although he was still as handsome and charming as ever.
"Although I didn't marry you back then, we still had a past relationship, so why be so heartless?" Ge Yunxiang smiled faintly, looking at Hua Feimeng with a strange gaze.
"Ge Yunxiang, don't flatter yourself. Who had a past relationship with you?" Hua Feimeng glanced at Ge Yunxiang with disdain and took a step to leave.
"Hua Feimeng, stop! Aren't you afraid I'll tell Hua Ruoxu about your secret rendezvous here?" Ge Yunxiang seemed a little embarrassed and angry. "You ran out in the middle of the night; if Hua Ruoxu finds out, he'll know exactly why you're a spy for him."
Hua Feimeng continued walking, too lazy to pay him any attention. Perhaps she had never seen such a boring person.
"Little Meng'er, I've divorced Sun Yunyan. Don't worry, I won't be like before. This time, I will definitely marry you." Seeing that Hua Feimeng didn't speak, Ge Yunxiang really thought she was scared and called out smugly behind her.
"Ge Yunxiang, I'm already Ruoxu's woman. Besides, let me tell you, even if I, Hua Feimeng, can't get married, I won't marry someone like you." Hua Feimeng suddenly felt a mix of amusement and exasperation. How could such a person exist in this world? Although she had once liked Ge Yunxiang, that was all in the past. Now, her heart belonged only to Hua Ruoxu. When a woman loves you, she will give everything for you, but when she no longer loves you, no matter what you do, you can't make her turn back. This was Hua Feimeng's situation now. She no longer loved Ge Yunxiang, and no matter what she did, it was useless.
"Meng'er." The voice she longed to hear came at this moment, and Hua Feimeng suddenly rushed towards the person.
"Ge Yunxiang, you're hopeless!" Hua Ruoxu gave Ge Yunxiang a cold look, then hugged Hua Feimeng and sped away.
Watching their backs, Ge Yunxiang's eyes revealed a frenzied jealousy.
"Your beloved woman is in someone else's arms. I think Sect Leader Ge must be very sad, right?" A delicate voice rang out.
Ge Yunxiang suddenly turned around and saw a beautiful girl in yellow emerge from behind a small hill not far away.
"If I had a way to bring her back to Sect Leader Ge's side, I wonder if Sect Leader Ge would be interested?" the girl continued.
"Who are you?" Ge Yunxiang was slightly angry; the wound in his heart had been reopened, and he naturally felt uncomfortable.
"Who I am is not important. What's important is whether Sect Leader Ge is interested in becoming the Supreme Martial Arts Master." The girl smiled slightly. "If Sect Leader Ge is already the Supreme Martial Arts Master, why worry about the woman you love not returning?"
"Everyone wants to be the Supreme Martial Arts Master, but I didn't expect a mere girl to be so arrogant." Ge Yunxiang coldly snorted, clearly looking down on the girl.

"I have no interest in that so-called Supreme Martial Arts Master, but if I want to become the Supreme Martial Arts Master alone, I can definitely do it." The girl was unfazed by Ge Yunxiang's sarcasm. "There's nothing I, Princess Wushuang, cannot do!"
"You, young lady, are Princess Wushuang?" Ge Yunxiang was shocked, looking at the girl in disbelief.
"Tomorrow at three-quarters past dusk, go to Piaoxiang Restaurant, my residence, Princess Wushuang. You can find out by asking." The young woman didn't speak, but turned slightly and walked away gracefully. At the same time, Ge Yunxiang heard her words.
*** *** ***
Piaoxiang Restaurant.
"Princess, is this Ge Yunxiang useful?" Mei'er asked in a low voice.
"Ge Yunxiang is, after all, the leader of a sect, with relatively high martial arts skills and reputation, so naturally he's useful," Princess Wushuang said calmly. "More importantly, he's obsessed with pursuing power, and coupled with his narrow-mindedness and extreme pragmatism, this kind of person is the easiest to manipulate."
"Then Princess, you won't choose him, will you?" Mei'er asked anxiously, her voice trembling with tears.
"Silly girl, how could I?" Princess Wushuang tapped Mei'er's head, looking both amused and exasperated. After a moment, she sighed softly and said leisurely, "I've changed my mind. Actually, I don't necessarily need to find a husband. With my status, many people will still be willing to risk their lives for us."
"That's good, Princess, you scared me to death!" Mei'er patted her chest exaggeratedly, looking relieved.
"You silly girl, aren't you just afraid of finding a son-in-law you don't like? I'll just not ask for your dowry." Princess Wushuang glared at Mei'er, annoyed. "
Princess, I didn't say that. I just think you must find the very best person to be my son-in-law." Mei'er looked a little embarrassed.
"Alright, stop fooling around. We still need to find the next person. Ge Yunxiang alone can't do much." Princess Wushuang pondered slightly.
"Princess, why do you always make me stand in for you? I bet if you went, all those men would do anything for you the moment they saw you," Mei'er pouted, looking somewhat confused.
"You know how close Father and the Emperor were back then. I don't want that to happen again," Princess Wushuang glared at Mei'er, annoyed. "Anyway, you've been with me for so many years, you know my every move. It's no big deal for me to let you impersonate me."
"You're lying to me! Don't think I don't know. You just want to impress Mei'er's future husband, so he'll fall head over heels for you after just one look, hehe." Mei'er giggled.
"If you keep talking nonsense, I'll give you away as someone else's concubine!" Princess Wushuang glared at Mei'er fiercely.
"Give you away to my future husband? Okay, I'm curious to see what he'll be like." Mei'er still smiled. The two had been bickering since childhood, and although they were mistress and servant, they were no different from sisters.
*** *** ***
Hua Feimeng and Hua Ruoxu were locked in a passionate embrace. Finally, Hua Feimeng could be by Hua Ruoxu's side without restraint. Overjoyed, she was exceptionally passionate towards him.
The next morning, Hua Ruoxu gently moved away from the alluring body pressed against him, dressed, and quickly went to Hua Yufeng's room.
"Feng'er, this is the terrain of the Immortal Palace's Jinling branch, and information about the people there. Judging from this, their strength shouldn't be too great right now. The Divine Palace could easily handle them, so I find something strange," Hua Ruoxu said. "
Perhaps they have other motives. But whatever the case, let's wait a few days until I have definite news before we start making our move," Hua Yufeng said after a moment's thought.
"Gong Yaqian has always hoped that we could openly and nominally join forces with them, and perhaps she still has that purpose this time," Hua Ruoxu said after a moment's thought. "If that's the case, perhaps we can give the disciples of Qinglou a chance to train."
A rapid knocking sounded at the door. "Alliance Leader, something's happened to the disciples of the four sects!" Zhao
Changkong said anxiously upon seeing Hua Ruoxu. Hua Ruoxu and Hua Yufeng hurriedly arrived at the disciples' quarters, where Zhou Changfeng and the others were already waiting for him. "Senior Brother Hua!" The group greeted Hua Ruoxu upon his arrival. The disciples of the four sects had been doing well these past few days; the food and lodging were quite good, and nothing seemed amiss. However, after breakfast this morning, almost all the disciples suddenly fell into a coma, their breathing growing weaker and weaker. "Feng'er, you keep an eye on them. I'll go find Xiaoxue; I think they've been poisoned," Hua Ruoxu said to Hua Yufeng after quickly checking on the condition of several disciples. *** *** *** “Young Master, where are we going?” Hanxue pouted, a little dissatisfied, in Hua Ruoxu’s arms. Hua Ruoxu had just rushed into Hanxue’s room, pulled her out of her still dazed state, dressed her without a word, and then ran out in his arms. “We’re here.” Hua Ruoxu returned like a whirlwind. “Xiaoxue, quickly check on them. Are they poisoned?” “So what if they’re poisoned? They’re not dead yet!” Hanxue muttered unhappily. “Anyway, I can’t save them if they’re dead. There’s no need to rush if they’re not.” “Xiaoxue, you should check on them first.” Hearing her words, Hua Ruoxu felt a little amused and exasperated. This girl was becoming more and more unreasonable. “I will check, Young Master. How will you thank me later?” Hanxue began to bargain with Hua Ruoxu while checking on an unconscious young Shaolin monk. By the time she had checked on everyone, Hua Ruoxu had lost count of how many conditions he had agreed to. "Brother Zhao, could you please go and buy the herbs listed on this list?" Hanxue handed a list to Zhao Changkong, clapping her hands. "Young Master, it's time to go out and play with me." Hua Ruoxu seemed to have agreed to go out with her earlier. Zhao Changkong hurriedly left. Now he almost obeyed Hanxue's every word, not because she was favored by Hua Ruoxu, but because he admired her from the bottom of his heart. Hanxue had used her unparalleled medical skills to instantly elevate him to the level of a first-rate master, making her his great benefactor. "Xiaoxue, I can't leave now. I'll go with you when I have time," Hua Ruoxu said helplessly. The disciples of various sects were still unconscious from the poisoning. He was not only the leader of Shaolin, but the leaders of the other three sects also revolved around him, so he naturally couldn't leave. "Senior Brother Hua, how did they get poisoned? And why were only they poisoned?" Zheng Yunfan walked over and asked in a low voice. "Xiaoxue, do you know how they were poisoned?" Hua Ruoxu knew nothing about poisons, but after thinking for a moment, he still asked Hanxue. "I don't know either." Hanxue looked unhappy. "I won't tell you unless you come play with me." It turned out she wasn't unaware, but she knew Ye wouldn't tell Hua Ruoxu. "Xiaoxue, stop making a fuss." Hua Ruoxu couldn't help but smile wryly. This little girl was really hard to coax now. "If you come play with me tonight, I'll tell you." Hanxue still insisted. "Okay, okay, I promise you. Now, Xiaoxue, tell me quickly." Hua Ruoxu had no choice but to coax her for the time being. "Hehe, young master, I'll tell you once Brother Zhao brings back the medicinal herbs." Hanxue giggled. Hua Ruoxu realized he had been fooled by this little girl again. She already had a plan in mind and was just trying to gain more benefits. Zhao Changkong acted swiftly, purchasing the medicinal herbs Hanxue needed in less than a quarter of an hour and returning to the Hua residence. Hanxue pulled Hua Ruoxu along, wanting him to accompany her to brew the medicine. "Young Master, let me tell you, some people weren't actually poisoned, but they pretended to be unconscious. I think there's definitely something wrong with them," Hanxue whispered in Hua Ruoxu's ear as she snuggled into his arms. "But don't worry, Young Master, once I've brewed the medicine, I'll make them suffer the consequences, hehe." Hua Ruoxu's heart skipped a beat. Suddenly, he understood why Ye Bu'er had so easily allowed the disciples of the four major sects to be taken away. In truth, these disciples weren't of much use to Ye Bu'er. If those black-clad assassins were Ye Bu'er's subordinates, Hua Ruoxu knew very well that the disciples of the four major sects were utterly vulnerable against them. Therefore, in reality, not only the four major sects, but all the disciples of the seven major sects and the four great families were merely decorations to Ye Bu'er; his true strength lay far beyond them. If the disciples of the four major sects were taken away by Hua Ruoxu and then something happened to them while they were with Hua Ruoxu, it would only benefit Ye Bu'er. "Xiaoxue, is this kind of poison fatal?" Hua Ruoxu asked after thinking for a moment. "Yes, but they won't die for at least ten days," Hanxue replied casually. Hua Ruoxu couldn't help but feel puzzled again. If it really was Ye Bu'er who did it, he should have just wanted these people to die. Why didn't he simply use a more potent poison? Could it be that he didn't want these people to die, but had some other conspiracy? "Young Master, what are you thinking about? Will you come out and play with me tonight?" Hanxue said coquettishly while watching the fire of the medicine being decocted. "Xiaoxue, I might be quite busy these days. When I have time later, I can play with you every day, okay?" Hua Ruoxu regained his composure. Thinking too much now was useless. Perhaps he could get some clues by asking those who pretended to be poisoned but weren't actually poisoned. "By the way, Xiaoxue, you must make sure those who haven't been poisoned don't have a chance to commit suicide later. Do you have a way to do that?" Hua Ruoxu asked again, remembering the man in black who had followed him. "Don't worry, Xiaoxue is an all-powerful divine doctor." Hanxue was a little listless because Hua Ruoxu still didn't want to go out with her. This little girl was probably bored at home, plus Hua Ruoxu spent too little time with her. *** *** *** Zhao Changkong and Zhou Changfeng and the others moved all the disciples into the hall. This was Hanxue's request. They fed them medicine one by one, and they gradually began to wake up. "Uh..." Suddenly, a few painful groans were heard. Hua Ruoxu looked around and saw that one disciple from each of the four major sects was rolling on the ground in pain, while the others were relatively normal, just beginning to recover from unconsciousness. " Hehe, young master, look, they brought it on themselves." Looking at the four people's painful appearance, Hanxue hugged Hua Ruoxu's arm and giggled. "Xiaoxue, are they just pretending to be unconscious?" Hua Ruoxu frowned and asked. "Hehe, young master, it's them! They're really poisoned now." Hanxue released her arm from Hua Ruoxu's and walked towards one of them, saying, "Young master, let me help you find out who sent them, okay?" "Xiaoxue, be careful." Hua Ruoxu was a little worried and followed her a few steps to her side. "Young master, don't worry. They weren't actually poisoned. It's just that the antidote I gave everyone here is an antidote for those who are truly poisoned, but poison for those who aren't. Now they can't even commit suicide." A sly smile appeared on Hanxue's face as she pulled out a half-foot-long silver needle from her bosom. The tip of the needle shimmered with a faint light, giving it a somewhat eerie feel.

"Brother, do you know what kind of poison you've been given?" Hanxue squatted down, slowly circling the silver needle in front of the man's eyes. "Let me tell you, this poison isn't very potent, but your eyes, nose, and other things will slowly rot away. Wow, that's scary! Young Master, I'm scared!" Hanxue suddenly stood up and threw herself at Hua Ruoxu, looking genuinely frightened.
The four people, already suffering on the ground from the poison, involuntarily shivered again. Hua Ruoxu chuckled inwardly; had Hanxue scared him so much that she even frightened him?
Hanxue then climbed out of Hua Ruoxu's arms, staring intently at the four people, her dark eyes darting back and forth between them, seemingly lost in thought.
"It's really scary. Let me think... maybe I shouldn't make you all so frightening." Hanxue changed her target, staring at another person, a robust-looking young monk.
"I'll prick you here first, then I'll prick you here too." Hanxue waved her little hands, gesturing on the young monk's body, then stopped in front of his eyes. "It looks like it'll hurt a lot, it could kill you, but it doesn't look too scary. I'll try it first." She said, pretending to prick him.
"Xiaoxue, wait a minute." Hua Ruoxu stopped her in time. This time, Hanxue obediently withdrew her hand and leaned against Hua Ruoxu.
"What's your name?" Hua Ruoxu turned to the young monk.
"I, I'm called Wuxing." Wuxing seemed a little reluctant, but seeing Hanxue watching him intently, he hesitated before finally speaking.
"Speak, who sent you?" Hua Ruoxu stared at him coldly, her tone indifferent.
"No, no one sent me!" In Hua Ruoxu's imagination, this person wouldn't confess so easily.
"Xiaoxue, do it. Don't hold back. It doesn't matter if he dies, there are still three others." Hua Ruoxu looked at Hanxue and said. Hanxue was indeed obedient. She quickly stabbed Wuxing several times with her slender hand. Wuxing suddenly showed an extremely painful expression. His face turned ashen, and large beads of sweat dripped down. His body began to curl up into a ball, but he didn't make a sound of pain.
"Not bad, doesn't look too scary. Let's try a couple more times." Hanxue murmured and stabbed him once more on his hands and feet.
"Alright, Xiaoxue, stop torturing him. Now let's see if he knows who sent him." Hua Ruoxu remained calm.
Hanxue was a little unhappy and muttered, "I haven't had enough fun yet." But despite her words, she still obediently let Wuxing return to normal.
"Can you tell me now?" Hua Ruoxu looked at Wuxing coldly.
"Sect Leader, this disciple really doesn't know. How could you treat me like this?" Wuxing seemed to suddenly become confident.
"As a Shaolin disciple, you colluded with others to try and kill your fellow disciples. You deserve to die!" Hua Ruoxu said coldly. With a flash of sword light, Wuxing fell to the ground before he could even scream. The other three's expressions changed drastically. Hua Yufeng and the others were also slightly taken aback, seemingly not expecting Hua Ruoxu to do such a thing.
"Changkong, I'll leave these people to you. Xiaoxue, you stay here and help Changkong. If they don't want to talk, there's no need to keep them alive. Even if they don't say anything, I know who did it." Hua Ruoxu said calmly, turned around and strode away. Hua Yufeng frowned slightly and followed.
"Feng'er, do you think my methods were a bit too ruthless?" Hua Ruoxu slowed his pace, put his arm around Hua Yufeng's slender waist, and asked in a low voice as he continued walking slowly forward.
"Actually, in the martial world, one should be ruthless. It's just... I'm not used to it." Hua Yufeng sighed softly.
“Actually, I didn’t want it to be like this, but when I think of Master, I can’t control my emotions. Master was so old, he could have enjoyed his old age, but he ended up dying tragically, and all of this was forced upon him by Ye Bu’er.” Hua Ruoxu said slowly, “When I was young, I often spent time with Master. At that time, I wasn’t his disciple yet. He was a very kind old man, never with the airs of the number one martial arts master. He was also very good to me. At that time, I didn’t like martial arts, so he told my father-in-law not to force me. I liked reciting poetry, and he often accompanied me. Since leaving Mount Hua, I haven’t had the chance to see him, and when we met again, it was because we were separated by death.”
“Junior brother, don’t be sad. Master Jueyuan’s spirit in heaven wouldn’t want to see you sad.” Hua Yufeng comforted him softly. In fact, she understood Hua Ruoxu’s feelings for Master Jueyuan. He hadn’t met many people growing up, and Master Jueyuan was someone he got along with exceptionally well. Now that he was dead, and had even committed suicide, it was normal for Hua Ruoxu to be very sad.
"So far, we still haven't found any of Ye Bu'er's hidden forces. We have no way to deal with him. Sometimes, I really want to just kill him, but..." Hua Ruoxu shook his head and sighed softly.
"Don't worry, he'll reveal his true colors sooner or later. At that time, he'll naturally show all his forces." Hua Yufeng comforted him. "Besides, I'll find out about his hidden forces sooner or later." Hua Yufeng's tone was also very confident.

Volume 8, Cold Sword, Chapter 3, Lightning Strike.

The three people finally confessed. They were the ones who poisoned him. The reason others weren't poisoned was because they poisoned him in two separate doses. The first dose was when they were still in the Ye family. Only when the two doses were combined would the poison take effect. However, they couldn't say who ordered them to do this, because they had never seen the person who gave them the order.
"Alliance Leader, what should we do with them?" Zhao Changkong asked finally.
"Let them go," Hua Ruoxu said after a moment's thought. He couldn't leave them here, but since they had confessed honestly, it wouldn't be good to kill them. Let them fend for themselves.
*** *** ***
Hua Yufeng's subordinates finally brought back news from the Immortal Palace. The information they received was basically consistent with the clues provided by the Divine Palace. Hua Ruoxu, Ximen Lin, Hua Yufeng, and the others discussed it and decided to act as soon as possible, fearing complications if they delayed.
Based on Hua Ruoxu's initial assessment, the Divine Palace was very likely to take the opportunity to spread news of Hua Ruoxu's attack on the Immortal Palace, so he had his own countermeasures.
As dusk fell and the lanterns were lit,
Hua Ruoxu, with one arm around Hanxue and the other holding Hua Yuluan's hand, walked slowly through Jinling City. Not only the three of them, but also Fang Xia, Hua Feihua, and the Three Beauties of Dongting were with them. This large group of men and women attracted countless eyes.
Lan Xuerou desperately tried to get closer to Fang Xia, while Hua Feihua teased her intermittently, making Lan Xuerou almost see Hua Feihua as a mortal enemy. Hua Feimeng looked at Han Xue with dissatisfaction, seemingly feeling that Han Xue had stolen her place, but seeing Hua Yufeng walking alongside her made her feel a little better.
Hua Yuluan didn't want to come out, because her belly was already protruding, and outsiders could easily notice that she was pregnant. No matter how strong Hua Yuluan was, she was still a woman and was a little shy. However, under Hua Ruoxu's repeated requests, she couldn't refuse him and finally went out with them.
Han Xue was initially happy to hear that Hua Ruoxu was taking her out, but she became somewhat unhappy when she saw so many people following them. However, thinking that being out was better than not being out at all, she finally clung to Hua Ruoxu's arm with a bright smile and was half-dragged along by him.
The Heavenly Star Alliance is practically defenseless. Besides Zhao Changkong and Huang Yingying, only the little monk Wuchen is present. The little monk dislikes crowds and doesn't come out, while Zhao Changkong stays at the Heavenly Star Alliance, and Huang Yingying stays to keep him company. Judging from their behavior, Huang Yingying has a chance to change her status as the sister-in-law and replace her sister.
Of course, the disciples of the four major sects are still inside; after all, so many people coming out would be quite frightening. In fact, Hua Ruoxu's large group alone is already somewhat astonishing, because so many beautiful young women have appeared at the same time, causing a sudden influx of people into Jinling City. They follow Hua Ruoxu and his group at a distance of several feet, having come specifically to see the beauties.
"Junior brother, there are many people following us, including several experts," Hua Yuluan said softly.
"It's alright, I wanted them to follow anyway," Hua Ruoxu smiled slightly.
At this moment, in a house in Jinling City, countless people in white suddenly rushed in, pairs of young men and women, and began a massacre of the people inside.
*** *** ***
Half an hour later, Hua Ruoxu and his group returned to the Hua residence.
"Sister Lin, how did it go?" Hua Ruoxu hurried to Ximen Lin's room, where she was waiting for him.
"Ruoxu, the Qinglou disciples are far more capable than we imagined. Only two suffered minor injuries, and they suffered almost no losses," Ximen Lin said softly. She had been secretly directing the disciples and witnessed the near-massacre.
"That's good. I really didn't want anything to happen to them." Hua Ruoxu breathed a slight sigh of relief. "I really didn't want them to become our mere killing tools."
"Ruoxu, I have some suspicions. It seems they've carried out similar operations before," Ximen Lin said after a moment's thought. "I feel like this isn't their first time participating in such an operation."
"I see." Hua Ruoxu frowned. Could it be that his sister had already had them do something similar before?
*** *** ***
The Immortal Palace's Jinling branch was wiped out overnight, with not a single survivor. Naturally, no one knew who was responsible. But starting early the next morning, a rumor began circulating in Jinling City: the Divine Palace had orchestrated the operation, and the reason for their attack on the Immortal Palace was supposedly because the Divine Palace considered the Immortal Palace's name taboo. The news spread like wildfire, and for a time, everyone seemed to believe it was true.
However, at the same time, another rumor surfaced, claiming that Hua Ruoxu's Heavenly Star Alliance had attacked the Immortal Palace, and that the Heavenly Star Alliance was expanding into the martial arts world, aiming to become the number one sect. However, few believed this rumor, as many had seen Hua Ruoxu leading the Heavenly Star Alliance on a leisurely outing the previous night.
"Senior Sister, how could this be? Who spread this news?" In the Divine Palace, Gong Yaqian had just received the news.
“Junior Sister, we still underestimated Hua Ruoxu.” The masked girl sighed softly. “He secretly possesses immense strength, which we are unaware of. Moreover, it’s clear he already knew our intentions and acted first, framing us instead.”
“Senior Sister, are you saying Hua Ruoxu did all this?” Gong Yaqian seemed somewhat skeptical.
“All along, we thought Hua Ruoxu simply had a few people, but now that I think about it, the fact that he could spread the news of the Tianxing Alliance’s establishment throughout the country in just a few days is beyond the capabilities of ordinary people. And today, he even managed to frame us for the destruction of the Immortal Palace branch before we could, the speed at which the news spread is something we can’t do now.” The masked girl nodded. “This person seems to be more than just a sentimental person.”
*** *** ***
“My lord, everyone is saying that the Divine Palace was behind it. Could it be that the Divine Palace is about to attack the Immortal Palace?” A somewhat thin man behind Ye Bu’er said.
"You're wrong. I believe what the others said; it was Hua Ruoxu who did it," Ye Bu'er said calmly.
"But Master, Hua Ruoxu really couldn't have made a move at that time last night," the thin man said, somewhat confused.
"Do you think I need to kill someone personally?" Ye Bu'er turned to the thin man.
"Of course not, Master," the thin man said with a forced smile.
"Hua Ruoxu is the same," Ye Bu'er sneered, his face gradually turning sinister. "Let the Divine Palace and Immortal Palace fight like dogs. Now, you must first kill that girl named Hanxue who's with Hua Ruoxu."
"Master, she's just a girl. Do we really need to kill her?" the thin man asked, seemingly confused.
"A girl? She's just a girl, but she's also a successor of the Medicine Valley," Ye Bu'er stared coldly at the thin man. "You should understand what a successor of the Medicine Valley means to us!"
"Yes, sir! I'll do it right away!" the thin man said, his expression changing.
"Remember, she must die, by any means necessary!" Ye Bu'er slowly uttered these words.
*** *** ***
Hua Ruoxu stood quietly by the window, in a good mood. He believed the Divine Palace would find out about his framing of them, but it didn't matter; he wasn't afraid of them knowing. He had now kept his promise and destroyed the Jinling branch, so the Divine Palace would have no reason to demand Hua Feimeng's return. He had finally put his mind at ease; from now on, Hua Feimeng belonged entirely to him, Hua Ruoxu. As for Ge Yunxiang, he was no longer worried about what Hua Feimeng would do to him, nor was he afraid of him bothering her. He believed that Hua Feimeng no longer had any other man in her heart. Every man is jealous, and everyone has a possessive desire for the woman they love. Hua Ruoxu was no exception, which was why he had felt uncomfortable when he saw Hua Feimeng still seem to have feelings for Ge Yunxiang.
"Young Master!" Hanxue slipped in. "Young Master, where did you go last night?" Hanxue was practically a housekeeper.
Hua Ruoxu smiled awkwardly. He had just returned from Hua Feimeng's place and didn't know how to answer Hanxue's question.

"Young Master, it wasn't fun with so many people last night. How about we go now?" Hanxue said sweetly, shaking Hua Ruoxu's arm as she spoke. "Please, Young Master."
"Xiaoxue, not today. Maybe later." Hua Ruoxu said, taking her hand. "Come on, let's go see Senior Sister."
*** *** ***
After leaving Hanxue with Hua Yuluan, Hua Ruoxu walked out alone, feeling relieved. This little girl was really too clingy now, and he was a bit helpless.
"Brother-in-law, brother-in-law!" Hua Feihua rushed over.
"Is something wrong?" Hua Ruoxu was used to this address; after all, he was indeed Hua Feihua's brother-in-law.
"Brother-in-law, that kid Fang Xia wants to go drinking. Shall we go together?" It seemed she was trying to get Hua Ruoxu to go drinking.
"Go drinking now?" Hua Ruoxu was a little amused. Although it wasn't very early, it wasn't evening yet either.
"Now's perfect! He'll be drunk by tonight," Hua Feihua said with a grin. "Then you can come back, brother-in-law. Otherwise, if you don't come home all night, my sister will definitely scold me."
"Well, you guys go ahead. I don't drink much," Hua Ruoxu still didn't want to go. He felt more comfortable at home, and there were several lovely girls keeping him company.
"Brother-in-law, you're not going to my sister's room in broad daylight, are you?" Hua Feihua looked around, her face full of mystery.
"Well, never mind, I'll go with you." Hua Ruoxu was a little embarrassed, but finally agreed to go. He just couldn't understand why Hua Feihua insisted on dragging him along.
When they arrived at Piaoxiang Restaurant, they found Fang Xia already there. Hua Ruoxu finally understood why Hua Feihua insisted on bringing him; it turned out that Fang Xia wasn't the only one drinking there, but also the Three Beauties of Dongting. Lan Xuerou glared angrily at Fang Xia, while Fang Xia kept drinking silently, already afraid of her. Hong Yue'er and Bai Xinjing each gave Fang Xia a cold look, a look that would make anyone uncomfortable.
Seeing Hua Feihua and Hua Ruoxu arrive, Fang Xia seemed relieved.
"Miss Lan, you seem to be in high spirits. Why don't you have a few drinks with me?" Hua Feihua smiled and moved closer to Lan Xuerou.
"Hey, get out of my way, or I'll hit you!" Lan Xuerou glared fiercely at Hua Feihua. These past few days, everyone had gradually realized that Lan Xuerou was a bit of a disappointment; she wasn't gentle at all.
"As the saying goes, 'A beating is a sign of affection'..." Hua Feihua chuckled, turning to look at Hua Ruoxu, "Brother-in-law, what's the next part?"
Hua Ruoxu shook his head with a wry smile, remaining silent. Hua Feihua seemed particularly interested in Lan Xuerou.
"Young Master Hua, what brings you here for drinks?" Bai Xinjing's cold voice rang out.
"I'm not usually very busy," Hua Ruoxu smiled.
"Really? Doesn't Young Master Hua need to spend time with his wives at home?" Hong Yue'er interjected, emphasizing the word "wives," seemingly displeased with Hua Ruoxu's philandering and numerous wives.
"My two beauties, you don't know this, but my brother-in-law is just too busy, so he's hiding out here," Hua Feihua added.
"Young Master Hua, can you be serious for once?" Bai Xinjing was already fed up with Hua Feihua.
"Hehe, Miss Bai, as long as you're willing to give me your little sister, I'll definitely treat you with utmost respect from now on." Hua Feihua said, grinning at Lan Xuerou.
"Hua Feihua, what did you say, you bastard? You want me to marry you? No way!" Lan Xuerou grabbed a wine cup and threw it at Hua Feihua.
"Hey, hey, hey, I'm telling you, Miss Lan, beautiful Lan, I'm doing this for your own good. Anyway, that silly boy Fang Xia doesn't want you, so why don't you come with me? It's rare to find someone as devoted to you as I am, so don't miss this opportunity." Hua Feihua put on a compassionate and benevolent act .
Lan Xuerou grabbed a jar of wine and threw it at him, but Hua Feihua caught it easily.
"Young Master Hua, are you just going to watch your subordinates harass innocent women like this?" Bai Xinjing looked at Hua Ruoxu with a hint of anger.
“Miss Bai, I will stop him. However, there’s something you should understand: matters of the heart cannot be forced.” Hua Ruoxu sighed softly. He had hoped Fang Xia and Lan Xuerou could be together, but so much time had passed, and Fang Xia still showed no intention of accepting Lan Xuerou, even avoiding her as much as possible. It seemed there was little chance; Fang Xia’s heart still belonged only to Sun Yunyan. “Feelings cannot be controlled either. I wonder if Young Master Hua understands this?” Bai Xinjing smiled calmly. “My little sister is so worried about Young Master Fang that she can’t eat or sleep. What can I, as her older sister, do besides support her?”

Hua Ruoxu fell silent, looking downstairs. Suddenly, he noticed a figure flash by, and his heart skipped a beat. “I have something to attend to, I must take my leave. Please excuse me.” Hua Ruoxu hurried downstairs, chasing after the person. After turning several corners, he arrived at an inn. Entering the back courtyard, the person turned around, smiling at Hua Ruoxu. "What do you want?" Hua Ruoxu asked, staring at her. He already knew she had deliberately lured him here. She was none other than Fei Xu, the one who had pestered him on the road but disappeared as soon as they returned to Jinling. She smiled sweetly at Hua Ruoxu, pushed open the door beside her, and went inside. "Did you miss me?" Hua Ruoxu followed her in. Fei Xu closed the door behind her, then wrapped her arms around Hua Ruoxu's neck, her cherry lips slightly upturned, her head tilted back, her tone full of allure. "What do you want? Tell me quickly, or I'm leaving." Hua Ruoxu pushed her away, his tone somewhat cold. "Can't I miss you? My lord, you wouldn't be so heartless to me, would you?" Fei Xu clung to him again. "Fine, then come with me!" Hua Ruoxu's mind raced, and he pulled her towards the door. "My lord, no, no, I won't go." Fei Xu panicked, struggling to pull her hand away. "What exactly do you want?" Hua Ruoxu glared at her fiercely. Feixu lowered her head, looking somewhat aggrieved, and remained silent. "I just wanted to see you," Feixu said softly after a while. "If you really want to see me, why don't you just come home with me? You can see me every day!" Hua Ruoxu said coldly. "I want to too, but, but..." Feixu stammered, unable to continue. "What's the secret you can't tell me?" Hua Ruoxu almost wanted to beat her up. "I'm giving you one last chance. If you still don't tell me, then don't ever show your face in front of me again!" "I... I don't want to die!" Feixu suddenly burst into tears and threw herself into Hua Ruoxu's arms. After a while, her sobs turned into low whimpers. "I don't want to do anything to hurt you again." "Nangong Feiyun... I don't know what he gave me. I have to take the antidote every few days, otherwise I feel terrible. That bastard! I even liked him! Now that I don't want to help him anymore, he's started treating me like this." Feixu began to speak with a hateful tone. "Is it really him?" Hua Ruoxu murmured. "I... I originally came to tell you that he seems to be targeting you." Feixu's eyes reddened. She glanced at Hua Ruoxu and then lowered her head. "Come back with me first!" Hua Ruoxu said after thinking for a moment. Feixu seemed to want to object, but after being glared at fiercely by Hua Ruoxu, she fell silent and followed him quietly. *** *** *** "Here, swallow this and you'll be fine." Hanxue glared at Feixu, extremely dissatisfied that Hua Ruoxu had brought someone back. Feixu took the pill Hanxue offered, hesitated slightly, then swallowed it, lowering her head, seemingly unaccustomed to the way people looked at her. "Don't you have anything to say?" Hua Ruoxu asked, giving her a disapproving look. "Young Master, I... I'll only tell you, okay?" Feixu looked at Hua Ruoxu with pitiful eyes, her voice soft and sweet, almost pleading. "Come with me!" Hua Ruoxu snorted, got up, and went back to his room. Feixu quickly followed. "Brother-in-law is really something, managing to find a beauty like this. But why does this little beauty look so familiar?" Hua Feihua murmured. When Hua Ruoxu returned, he and Fang Xia had already returned as well. "Go to hell!" Hua Feimeng glared fiercely at her precious younger brother, then angrily went back to her room. *** *** *** "Alright, you can talk now. Also, you'll be staying here from now on, so don't wander off," Hua Ruoxu said calmly. "Whose room is this?" Feixu asked, somewhat puzzled.

"I'll go somewhere else," Hua Ruoxu said irritably. There weren't any extra rooms, and he wasn't comfortable letting Feixu stay with someone else, so he had no choice but to make this arrangement.
"Young master, you can sleep with me," Feixu said without any shyness.
"Don't bring up other things. I've already had Xiaoxue cure the poison you were poisoned by, so you can rest assured." Hua Ruoxu's tone was a little cold. "How much do you know about Nangong Feiyun?" "
I don't know much about him either. He's always so mysterious. I've always lived separately from him." Feixu said, her face slightly flushed. "Last night, when I went to his place, I saw him talking to someone. I didn't hear clearly, but I heard your name and something about Jiang Yue. I was afraid he would find out, so I ran away quickly. Then I wanted to warn you that he might be planning to deal with you." "
Xiaoyue?" Hua Ruoxu's expression changed. "Was he talking about Jiang Xiaoyue?"
"I didn't hear clearly. I only heard your name. I think it must be related to you." Feixu's face was a little unnatural, and she said in a low voice.
"What else do you know?" Hua Ruoxu tried to calm down her excitement, but her voice had already changed slightly.
"That's all I know. He knows I'm not willing to help him now, so he won't let me know anything important." Feixu shook her head and said.
"Then you should rest early, I'm going out." Hua Ruoxu left hurriedly.
*** *** ***
"Feng'er, do you think Feixu's words can be trusted?" In Hua Yufeng's room, Hua Ruoxu had just told her what Feixu had said.
"What do you think?" Hua Yufeng didn't answer, but asked instead.
"I always feel that her words aren't very reliable, but they don't seem like lies either, it's hard to judge." Hua Ruoxu sighed softly, Feixu always gave him an elusive feeling.
"Perhaps it's half true and half false." Hua Yufeng pondered for a moment and said.
"I don't know if leaving her here is the right or wrong thing." Hua Ruoxu sighed softly, he always felt that Feixu was somewhat unpredictable, making him uneasy, but he didn't know exactly what was wrong.
"I'll have someone investigate, but you should also be careful." Hua Yufeng thought for a moment and said.
"By the way, Feng'er, do you still know where Nangong Feiyun is?" Hua Ruoxu asked after a moment's thought. He had long wanted to go to Nangong Feiyun to inquire about Jiang Xiaoyue, but various reasons had prevented him from doing so. Now that Feixu had suddenly mentioned Jiang Xiaoyue, although he didn't know if her words were true or false, it made Hua Ruoxu determined to go and see for himself, and also to investigate Nangong Feiyun's background. If Feixu's words were true, then it was certain that Nangong Feiyun was no ordinary person.
"You're going to find Jiang Xiaoyue?" Hua Yufeng was intelligent and naturally understood Hua Ruoxu's meaning.
"There's something I'm still unsure about, and I think I should ask him clearly. Also, I want to know what Nangong Feiyun's true identity is." Hua Ruoxu nodded gently.
"I'll tell you tomorrow. I need to check again; perhaps he's no longer in the same place." Hua Yufeng said softly after a moment's thought.
"I'll go see Feixu again." Hua Ruoxu nodded and gently hugged Hua Yufeng.
*** *** ***
Fei Xu sat on the edge of the bed, swinging her legs back and forth, feeling somewhat bored. Suddenly, her eyes
lit up as Hua Ruoxu walked in from outside. "Young Master, are you staying here tonight?" Fei Xu landed abruptly, lightly touched the ground, and leaped towards Hua Ruoxu, wrapping her arms around his neck, her lips slightly upturned, her eyes filled with alluring charm.
"I came to see you," Hua Ruoxu said calmly, his gaze towards Fei Xu somewhat complicated. This time, he didn't immediately push her away.
"Hehe, I knew you still couldn't bear to part with me, Young Master," Fei Xu smiled sweetly, looking very happy. Hua Ruoxu stared into her eyes, which were clear and pure, without a trace of impurity or falsehood.
"It's getting late, you should rest now. I'm leaving." After a brief silence, Hua Ruoxu gently pushed Fei Xu away, speaking softly, then turned and slowly walked out.
"Young Master, can't you stay?" Fei Xu's tone was somewhat plaintive, tinged with a sob. Hua Ruoxu paused slightly, then continued striding forward.
"Young Master!" a sweet voice called out, and Hanxue suddenly appeared, throwing herself into Hua Ruoxu's arms.
"Xiaoxue, why aren't you asleep yet?" Hua Ruoxu gently embraced Hanxue, his eyes filled with tenderness.
"I'm waiting for Young Master," Hanxue said sweetly, probably having visited quite a few people's rooms recently.
"I'll take you back to your room," Hua Ruoxu said, feeling a mix of gratitude and helplessness, as he swept her petite body into his arms.
At the doorway, Feixu appeared. Watching Hua Ruoxu and Hanxue's retreating figures, her eyes held a hint of resentment and jealousy.
*** *** ***
"Young Master, don't go! Xiaoxue can't sleep alone!" Hanxue clung to Hua Ruoxu's arm, trying to stop him from leaving. Hua Ruoxu had just placed her on the bed and was about to sit up.
"Xiaoxue, didn't you always sleep alone?" Hua Ruoxu felt a mixture of amusement and exasperation.
"I like sleeping on Young Master now," Hanxue pouted, her cheeks puffed out.
Hua Ruoxu finally couldn't resist Hanxue's insistence and stayed.
"Young Master, don't be naughty, okay? Xiaoxue wants to sleep." Hanxue snuggled into Hua Ruoxu's arms and mumbled something, but this remark caused trouble.
Hanxue was a beautiful young woman, but most of the time, Hua Ruoxu treated her like a somewhat immature little girl, liking her cuteness and her absent-mindedness. Although he often hugged and cuddled her, he rarely had any romantic thoughts about her. However, it was impossible for him not to be moved at all when a beautiful young woman was in his arms. Now, Hanxue's words made Hua Ruoxu, who was already a little moved, instantly feel a surge of heat in his heart.
He hugged Hanxue slightly tighter, gazing intently at her pretty face. Hanxue's starry eyes were slightly closed, her beautiful eyelashes obscuring them. A tiny glimmer of light shimmered on her delicate arms, and a sweet smile graced her rosy face, making her incredibly beautiful and adorable.
Hua Ruoxu gently lowered his head and finally couldn't resist kissing her cherry-like lips. At the same time, he felt the person in his arms tremble slightly, her delicate body instantly becoming soft and hot.
Time slowly passed, and after an unknown amount of time, Hua Ruoxu finally released her lips, then looked at Hanxue with a half-smile, his eyes still burning with desire.
Hanxue's face and neck were flushed red, her pink face as delicate as a begonia, almost dripping with honey, her beautiful eyes wide open as she looked at Hua Ruoxu.
"Young...Young Master," Hanxue stammered, "Don't, don't look at me like that."
"Xiaoxue, actually, you're very beautiful too," Hua Ruoxu said softly, his hand gently stroking her hair, then slowly moving down.
"I'm already very beautiful," Hanxue muttered, looking at Hua Ruoxu with some dissatisfaction, as if she felt that Hua Ruoxu shouldn't have only realized her beauty now.
Hua Ruoxu stopped speaking, lowered his head again, and kissed her, kissing her rosy cheeks, gently nibbling her earlobe, and slowly moving downwards. His hands were not idle either; one hand began to unbutton her clothes, the other slipped inside.
*** *** ***
Feixu stared intently at Hanxue's door, but ultimately didn't see Hua Ruoxu emerge. Somewhat unwilling to give up, she tiptoed to Hanxue's door. Suddenly, the light inside went out, and faint moans began to drift out, interspersed with low breaths.
Feixu's face instantly turned ashen; she gritted her teeth, glaring hatefully at the door as if trying to see through it to the scene inside. She clenched her fists tightly, a glint of malice in her eyes, then quickly turned and went back into the room.
In the darkness, Feixu's eyes seemed to gleam with an eerie light, giving off a strange feeling.

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